Tom Lynch had a significant impact in his return to the Richmond line-up for last Thursday night’s blockbuster Round 14 clash with Carlton at the MCG.

The dual Tiger premiership star key forward, who missed the team’s previous two games because of a hamstring injury, took four marks, kicked three goals and had eight score involvements.

All of his goals came during the first half when the Tigers set up their important win with formidable football in the wet conditions.

Richmond coach Damien Hardwick, in his post-match press conference, lauded Lynch, who has booted 34 goals in 11 games this season and is the competition’s No. 1 player for contested marks per game.

“He’s so important to the way we play. You can see the importance he has by the players around him growing in stature,” Hardwick said.

“He was battling two (opponents) most of the night but managed to get the ball to ground, was rarely outmarked, and kicked some really important goals as well.

“So, he had a good game. Tough night for forwards, but we were pleased with the way he went.”